La Macaza, a charming village nestled in the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec, Canada, is a municipality that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a population of 1094 according to the 2021 Canadian census, this quaint village in the Antoine-Labelle Regional County Municipality is a hidden gem in the Laurentian region.
La Macaza is home to the La Macaza – Mont Tremblant International Airport, a vital transportation hub serving the region. Adding to the village's significance, a medium-security federal penitentiary is located adjacent to the airport.
The village boasts an international tourist attraction - a covered bridge that runs over the Macaza River. Built in 1904, this bridge adds a touch of historical charm to the scenic landscape. The municipality is also dotted with numerous lakes and beaches, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
The name "Macaza" is believed to be derived from a native chief from the region, possibly an old Amerindian who camped on the shores of Lake Macaza, as per the Geographic Names of the Province of Quebec (1921). The area was inhabited by indigenous peoples before the arrival of the first European settlers around 1866. The village of La Macaza was established in 1904 with the founding of the parish of Notre-Dame-du-Divin-Pasteur (Our Lady of Divine Shepherd). The municipality was formed in 1930 when its territory was detached from the municipality of Marchand (now part of Rivière-Rouge). Initially a farming community, La Macaza later became a hub for logging. Today, it welcomes a flood of vacationers each year.
The linguistic diversity of La Macaza is reflected in its demographics. French is the first language for 92% of the population, while English is the first language for 2%. A small percentage (1%) of the population speaks both English and French as their first language, and 6% speak other languages.
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In conclusion, La Macaza, Quebec, with its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique travel experience.
